• More than five juvenile polyps of the colorectum
• Or, multiple juvenile polyps throughout the GI tract
• Or, any number of juvenile polyps and a family history of JP

One to two percent of individuals in the general population will develop a solitary (single) juvenile polyp. These persons are not affected by JP because a major diagnostic feature of the condition is the presence of multiple juvenile polyps.Although most people affected by JP will have some polyps by age 20, juvenile polyps can develop at any age (from infancy through adulthood). In some families with a history of JP, the onset of symptoms may occur at an earlier age and the severity of symptoms may increase with each successive generation. This phenomenon is referred to as anticipation.Other genetic conditions may be confused with JP because their symptoms also include hamartomatous polyps. These conditions include Cowden syndrome, Gorlin Syndrome, and Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba Syndrome. Each of these conditions has additional distinct physical characteristics that are not associated with JP. A detailed physical examination and family history may help to assure a correct diagnosis.

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